Mark Bumgarner on Michelle Dee's Miss Universe 2023 evening gown: 'We wanted to show the world how vibrant our culture is, and I think we did'

Miss Universe 2023 outcomes aside, Michelle Dee's evening gown was a total stunner, a head-turner, a traffic-stopper.

Inspired by and a tribute to Apo Whang-Od, Michelle's black evening dress featured patterns on its sleeves, shoulders, bodice, and back not unlike the tattoos of the Philippines' oldest mambabatok.

Michelle's gown was designed by Mark Bumgarner, who took to Instagram to share his insights about his creation.

"Every stitch, every beadwork was made with love and pride, for you and our country," Mark said in the caption that accompanied a video of Michelle modeling his design.

"We wanted to show the world how vibrant our culture is, and I think we did," he added.

Mark, who has dressed many local and international celebrities, said working with the Miss Universe Philippines 2023 was definitely a career highlight for him.

"You brought pride to us all," he said. "You did an amazing job!"

"We love you Michelle Dee," Mark said tagging the beauty queen.

Michelle Dee quickly trended online after her dramatic entrance wearing the exquisite Mark Bumgarner gown, with Catriona Gray saying it was "an iconic moment on the MU stage for me."

She exited the Miss Universe 2023 in the Top 10 but not without securing three special awards. 

Nicaragua's Sheynnis Palacios was crowned Miss Universe 2023. 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by MARK BUMGARNER (@markbumgarner)

— LA, GMA Integrated News